It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Franklin “Bob” Cook, Sr.  Bob founded Bob Cook Sales, a manufacturer’s rep agency, in June of 1979. As his company grew from just himself to a two-man and finally a full-fledged rep business, Cook began to give back by helping to foster the industry. When he wasn’t on the road, he devoted himself to SEMA projects. His résumé of services included three consecutive terms on the SEMA Board of Directors, as well as the chairmanships of the WD of the Year Committee, Rep Committee and Dues Review Committee. He also served on the Long Range Planning Committee, the New Products Judging Committee and the Person of the Year Committee. Under his leadership, Bob Cook Sales has been honored six times with the SEMA Rep of the Year award, and Cook has himself been inducted in the SEMA Hall of Fame.

Bob Cook retired in 2008 where he enjoyed working on his farm in Georgia. He is survived by his children: Robby Cook of Winterville, GA, Jeff Cook of Winterville, GA, and Lisa D’Hilly of Huntsville, AL; siblings: Shelma Chafin, Wallace Cook, and Shirley Bryant; two grandchildren and four great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Mayo Clinic for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Bob Cook was a legend and a friend to many. His zest for life and love for the automotive industry will be greatly missed.

This award is voted on by CAN membership and recognizes someone who has made a significant contribution for the benefit of the custom automotive distribution system. The award was presented by Tracie Nunez, CAN president, at the 44th annual CAN Connect Conference on Sep. 10. CAN was formerly known as Performance Warehouse Association.

“We are honored to present this award to Les as he embodies a deep passion for the automotive aftermarket,” Nunez said. “His outstanding contributions and continued dedication is not only visible to CAN and Bob Cook Sales, but to the industry as a whole.”

Rudd is a past CAN rep liaison for more than 7 years and is also recognized by Manufacturers Agents National Association through his CPMR certification via the Manufacturer Reps Education Research Foundation. He currently serves on the SEMA Board of Directors, is immediate past chairman of the manufacturer representative network and is involved on many other industry committees and focus groups.

Exerted from: The SHOP News

Congrats to Cathy Clark for being elected to the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Select Committee. The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network is a dynamic group of professionals representing the women of SEMA. The SBN oversees the continued development and management of Gear-up Girl, SBN SEMA Show Reception, opportunities for SBN Member Networking, SBN Communications, SBN Projects, development of articles and member features, contributes regularly to SEMA Member News, and much more! The SBN, now over 550+ members strong, is the fastest growing group within the SEMA membership.

Bob Cook Sales would like to congratulate Mike Katz on earning his Certified Professional Manufacturers Representative designation.  CPMR® candidates invest one week annually for three years to gain knowledge and insight into operating a more progressive and efficient rep firm. In addition, they acquire an international network of colleagues from many industries. Graduates earn the right to use the distinctive designation and gain membership to MRERF’s Institute for Professional Advancement (IPA). Bob Cook Sales is in a very select group of aftermarket automotive rep firms that have three agents with their CPMR® certification: Mike Katz, Eddie Hamilton, and Les Rudd.

Congrats to Mike Katz! He has been chosen for the SEMA MRN Select Committee!